Like many Nintendo franchises (notably Mario, Zelda, and Metroid), i got into Fire Emblem well after the series was established. My first experience with it was Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, and i suppose i was a little spoiled by the functions that were in that game, notably the very basic commands of Shove and Rescue, and mounted units' Canto ability, to move after attacking.

While playing Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon, i have often felt brief moments of frustration when i could have salvaged a situation by rescuing a character in duress, shoving a character with low Move, or simply attacking a tough boss and moving back, so i didn't have to commit that unit to two rounds against the boss.

Aside from that, i'm quite satisfied so far. I'm on chapter 5, i think, the one right after the battle on "The Lea," and things could change. The basic functions are otherwise starkly familiar. The weapons triangle, statistics in general, move cost, and other things. The music is simpler, but appropriate. The battle graphics are actually quite pleasing, with smooth movements and polygonal graphics. The game really builds up the action quickly, too. It took a much longer time for you to get as many units in PoR or RD, so you really get the thrill of managing larger numbers of units on large maps right away, something that many RPGs, and especially strategy RPGs, seem to drag their feet on.

Character development leaves a bit to be desired, so far. I find Malledus annoying, and Marth doesn't speak enough for me to get a read on him, though i do enjoy Caeda.

I should enjoy this game greatly, but in my case, it takes a good bit of getting used to.

im on the second to last chapter (playing right now) and i gota say, i never really liked the shove option too much. it did help, but idk.

I'm on Chapter 6 and finally not losing guys...

I tend to kill most of my units to get the gaiden chapters and the extra characters.